Wiltshire Police has revealed why its officers have been patrolling Swindon suburbs on foot recently.

Officers could be seen walking around Godwin Road and the wider Stratton area in the early hours of Friday morning.

After residents wondered about the reason for the force’s presence, it was announced that patrols had been stepped up after vehicle interference.

A Wiltshire Police spokesperson said: “Following reported concerns about vehicle interference in the Stratton area, PCs Crisp and Vassallo from the local neighbourhood team conducted foot patrols in the early hours to help deter opportunistic thieves.

“Please report thefts from vehicles by calling us on 101.”